AFP: 348 Reds, allies neutralized in 2-month ops

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2024): AFP: 348 Reds, allies neutralized in 2-month ops (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla (PNA photo by Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – Government troops have neutralized a total of 348 New People's Army (NPA) members and their allies in operations from Jan. 1 to March 7, the military announced Tuesday.

In a press briefing in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said this includes 301 who surrendered, 14 who were apprehended and 33 who were killed.

She said a total of 41 camps, 175 firearms and 44 anti-personnel mines (APMs) were seized from the communist rebels during this period.

"In the same period, a total of 44 local terrorist group members were neutralized," Padilla said.

This can be broken down into 27 surrendered, one arrested, and 16 killed, she added.

Troops also seized a total of 44 firearms, four APMs and five encampments of local terrorist groups, Padilla said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220568

Navy starts training on operations of S. Korean-made corvettes

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2024): Navy starts training on operations of S. Korean-made corvettes (By Priam Nepomuceno)

PN spokesperson Commander John Percie Alcos (PNA photo by Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The Philippine Navy (PN) on Tuesday said it has started training its troops on how to operate its South Korean-made corvettes that are set to arrive in the next two to three years.

In a press briefing in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, PN spokesperson Commander John Percie Alcos said these ships are the two guided missile corvettes currently being built at the HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea.

"The first corvette will be coming in during the second semester of next year, the PN has been preparing for that already, we have been training people, we have been organizing them," Alcos said.

He added that the Navy has also started the procurement of the "necessary equipment" to allow these PN personnel to perform effectively when "these new acquisitions arrived."

Alcos said the PN crew members tasked to man these new ships would be deployed to South Korea next year to train with the "original equipment manufacturers".

Corvettes, which usually weigh around 1,000 to 2,500 gross tons, are the smallest naval surface ships capable of dealing with submarines and other maritime threats. They are followed in size and weaponry by frigates and destroyers.

These corvettes will be equipped with state-of-the-art weapons, sensors and systems that can address various maritime security situations.

Corvettes can also perform anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare operations.

The first corvette is scheduled to be delivered to the Philippines in 2025 while the second will be delivered in 2026.

The Department of National Defense signed a PHP28-billion contract with HHI for the acquisition of two brand-new corvettes for the PN on Dec. 27, 2021.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220577

US exec: State Secretary Blinken to visit PH 'in a week or so

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2024): US exec: State Secretary Blinken to visit PH 'in a week or so' (By Kris Crismundo)

SECOND VISIT. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in an event at the Ayala Triangle Garden in Makati City during his first visit to the Philippines on Aug. 6, 2022. The White House official will visit the country again in the coming weeks, according to US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. (PNA file photo)

MANILA – A White House official said here Tuesday United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken will set foot again in the Philippines in the coming weeks.

US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo said in a meeting with Filipino and American businesses in Makati City, the visit of US officials here sends the message that the Philippines is an important partner for the US.

“(T)he message is--the United States [is] committed to the Philippines, (that it) is going to continue to show up in the Philippines. And I think Secretary Blinken will be here in a week or so,” Raimondo said.

The upcoming trip of Blinken in Manila will be his second official visit since August 2022.

On the sidelines of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in San Francisco, California in November 2023, Blinken also met with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. when the Philippines and the US sealed the 123 Agreement, or the civil nuclear cooperation deal.

Raimondo highlighted the special relation of the US with the Philippines in the region, having 72 years of bilateral relations, which she described as “iron clad.”

White House officials that have visited Manila since the current administration include US Vice President Kamala Harris, Blinken, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, Raimondo, and United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220599

Navy: Ayungin's shallow waters prompt use of civilian boats for RORE

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2024): Navy: Ayungin's shallow waters prompt use of civilian boats for RORE (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Philippine Navy spokesperson for the WPS Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad (PNA photo by Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The shallow water condition in the Ayungin Shoal is the main reason for the Philippines' use of "indigenous boats" in its rotation and reprovisioning (RORE) missions for troops manning the BRP Sierra Madre (LS-57) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), a ranking naval official said Tuesday.

"It's only Unaizah Mae (1), a contracted civilian ship that has access to the shoal because of the shallowness of its draft," Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson for the WPS Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad said in a press briefing in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

He also clarified that the Philippine government uses a combination of Navy, Coast Guard and local government unit-operated ships for RORE missions in eight other Philippine-held features in the WPS.

Trinidad said the decision to use PN ships to escort RORE missions is up to the discretion of the Western Command and "subject to the guidance of higher headquarters."

"The composition of any RORE mission, first and foremost is it is a naval operation conducted by Naval Forces West, the naval component of the Western Command. The composition of what type of ship, what capability used is up to the discretion of the Western Command subject to guidance of higher headquarters," he said when asked on the feasibility of using PN ships as escorts.

Trinidad said the PN is doing all it can to secure the WPS using its assets.

Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said 54 Chinese vessels were spotted in various features in the WPS as of Monday afternoon.

"In Bajo de Masinloc, five China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels, 18 China Maritime Militia vessels and 10 China small boats; in Ayungin Shoal, one CCG vessel, six China fishing vessels; in Pagasa Island, one CCG vessel and six China fishing vessels; in Panata island, seven China fishing vessels. There are no significant sightings on the WPS' other features," she added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220598

Some Chinese proposals on WPS row run contrary to PH Constitution: DFA

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2024): Some Chinese proposals on WPS row run contrary to PH Constitution: DFA (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

MANILA – The Philippines has denied ignoring China’s proposals to manage tensions in the South China Sea, saying some of them cannot be considered as they run contrary to the national interest and the Constitution itself.

The statement came after The Manila Times quoted a Chinese official as saying Beijing has submitted 11 concept papers, including on the Ayungin Shoal and the fishing issue on Scarborough Shoal, but “were met with inaction” by Manila.

“The DFA had received last year a number of concept papers from China on various maritime-related proposals. In no way did the Philippine Government ignore China’s proposals,” the DFA statement on Tuesday read.

“Upon receipt of the Chinese proposals, the Philippine Government had immediately undertaken serious study and consideration of all of them,” it added.

The DFA said it had lengthy and in-depth consultations with various government agencies and held several rounds of discussions but found that some of the proposals if pushed would equate to violating the Philippine Constitution.

“While a few proposals were deemed somewhat workable, many of the remaining Chinese proposals were determined, after careful study, scrutiny and deliberation within the Philippine Government, to be contrary to our national interests,” it said.

The DFA said it cannot enter into any “agreement or understanding” that would undermine the Philippine Constitution or denigrate the legally-settled rights of the Philippines under international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award.

Still, Manila continued engaging Beijing and submitted counter proposals in 2023.

Instead of considering these, the DFA said the Chinese side presented its own counter-proposals, “which again did not reflect our interests, especially on issues such as the South China Sea”.

The DFA also confirmed that Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong discussed the proposals when he visited Manila in March 2023.

The Chinese diplomat, the DFA said, referred to a so-called “gentlemen's agreement” where “China insisted on actions that would be deemed as acquiescence or recognition of China’s control and administration over the Ayungin Shoal as China’s territory.”

“As Ayungin Shoal is a part of the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines, the proposal of China could not be considered by the Philippines without violating the Philippine constitution or international law,” the DFA said.

It added that these proposals were again discussed in person during the 8th Bilateral Consultation Meeting on the South China Sea on Jan. 17, 2024.

Based on DFA’s January release, the only agreement made at that time was to “deescalate” the situation in the South China Sea when they both presented their respective positions on the Ayungin Shoal.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220605

US Indo-Pacific Command pledges more high-level engagements with AFP

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13, 2024): US Indo-Pacific Command pledges more high-level engagements with AFP (By Priam Nepomuceno)

STRONG ALLIANCE. USINDOPACOM commander, Admiral John Aquilino, signs the guestbook at the Bulwagang Balangiga before his meeting with AFP chief, Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (right), at the AFP General Headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Tuesday (March 12, 2024). The two officials discussed various activities and exercises aimed at boosting interoperability between Filipino and American troops. (Photo courtesy of the AFP)

MANILA – The United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) has committed to having more high-level engagements and exercises with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), as part of efforts to ensure that the region remains free and open.

USINDOPACOM commander, Admiral John Aquilino, made this pledge during his meeting with AFP chief, Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Tuesday, where they discussed various activities and exercises aimed at boosting interoperability between the two militaries.

"Among those discussed were the lined-up programs and activities, including the Philippines-US 'Balikatan' exercises, the maritime cooperative activities, and Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement sites projects," AFP public affairs office chief, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, said in a statement Tuesday night.

The two officials also tackled ways to further beef up coordination with other militaries from like-minded nations to advance the rules-based international order and secure a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

No other details were available due to security reasons.

"Their meeting manifests the commitment of the AFP to its treaty ally to ensure high-level coordination and sustained implementation of programs aimed at enhancing interoperability between the two militaries," Trinidad added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220667

PH to co-host Southeast Asia maritime surveillance, info sharing meet

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13, 2024): PH to co-host Southeast Asia maritime surveillance, info sharing meet (By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

MANILA – The Philippines is set to co-host the 2025 Indo-Pacific Regional Information Sharing (IORIS) Steering Committee meeting, and will be represented by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).

In a statement on Wednesday, MARINA said the event will highlight efforts to strengthen regional governance within Southeast Asia (SEA) in collaboration with the European Union and the Critical Maritime Routes Indo-Pacific (CRIMARIO).

“With the Philippines' co-hosting role, it signifies [the country’s] commitment to enhancing maritime security and fostering regional cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. Such efforts are crucial for regional prosperity and connectivity,” it said.

The IORIS initiative also seeks to enhance cooperation between its members in maritime surveillance, information exchange, crisis management using the IORIS platform, and strengthen their commitment to address challenges in the region, such as illegal activities at sea and ensuring maritime security and navigation safety.

The announcement was made during the 2nd IORIS Steering Committee meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka held from March 5 to 7.

More than 130 government officials and representatives from 56 agencies and authorities across the Indo-Pacific region participated in the three-day IORIS Steering Committee meeting.

The event aimed to consolidate and enhance the governance of the IORIS platform that was designed to facilitate coordination and exchange of information to respond effectively to maritime security threats and support sustainable fishers.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220740

Marcos vows to continue defending PH territory amid China’s incursions

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 14, 2024): Marcos vows to continue defending PH territory amid China’s incursions (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

HARASSMENT. A Philippine civilian vessel on a supply mission for troops stationed at BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal is blasted with water cannon by a Chinese coast guard vessel on March 5, 2024. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has vowed to continue defending Philippine territory, particularly its maritime domain, amid China’s incursions in the West Philippine Sea. (Photo courtesy of Armed Forces of the Philippines)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday maintained that he will continue defending the Philippines’ territory, particularly its maritime domain, amid China’s incursions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

In a media interview on the sidelines of his three-day working visit to Berlin, Germany, Marcos said there is nothing new with Chinese President Xi Jinping’s recent call on China’s armed forces to coordinate for possible military conflicts at sea.

Marcos said it has been China’s consistent policy for the last two or three years.

“That’s what they’ve been doing already. They have defined the 10-Dash line… and for our part continue to defend what we (have)…and the international community has recognized as our maritime territory,” he said.

“So, I’m not surprised, but we will have to continue to do what we can to defend our maritime territory in the face of perhaps a more active attempt by the Chinese to annex some of our territory,” Marcos added.

Marcos’ statement came after Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo confirmed that United States Secretary of State Anthony Blinken will meet with the President on March 19 to discuss cooperation and security matters.

Marcos expressed eagerness to hold a meeting with Blinken to formalize the trilateral cooperation among the Philippines, Japan, and the US amid the tensions in the WPS.

The Philippines has been intensifying its security cooperation with the US, Japan, as Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel and Filipino fishermen faced constant harassments from Chinese maritime forces.

During his bilateral meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin on Tuesday, Marcos emphasized the importance for “like-minded” countries to "present a united front against any unilateral attempts to take territory from any other country.”

He issued the statement as he discussed with Scholz the latest developments in the WPS.

Scholz, meanwhile, stressed the need to adhere to the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration's ruling on the South China Sea, as well as ensure freedom of navigation in the disputed waters.

He also assured Marcos of Germany’s continued support and their commitment to increase maritime cooperation with the Philippines, including other cooperative endeavors between the two countries.

“So, we are willing to increase this, and all the other cooperation we are having,” Scholz told Marcos.

Marcos acknowledged Germany’s assistance in securing the country’s maritime domain, including through capacity-building of the PCG and trainings of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220768

Senate nod on amnesty grants to hasten reintegration of ex-rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 14, 2024): Senate nod on amnesty grants to hasten reintegration of ex-rebels (By Priam Nepomuceno)

OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (File photo)

MANILA – The Senate's concurrence to President Ferdinand Marcos R. Jr.'s proclamations granting amnesty to former rebels would expedite their normalization and reintegration into mainstream society, the country's peace body said Thursday.

Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. issued the statement after the upper chamber on Wednesday concurred with Proclamation 404, which grants amnesty to the former members of the Communist Party of the Philippine-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and its front organizations.

On March 4, the Senate adopted Presidential Proclamations 403, 405 and 406 granting amnesty to former members of the Rebolusyunaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB), Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), respectively.

"By giving amnesty, we are opening a window of opportunity for former rebels to reintegrate into mainstream society as peaceful and productive individuals. This, in itself, is an act of compassion and reconciliation that will allow the healing of wounds caused by armed conflict, and break down the barriers of fear, animosity, and divisiveness among our people," Galvez noted.

The OPAPRU chief, meanwhile, said the National Amnesty Commission will soon issue the implementing rules and regulations of the national government’s amnesty program, which will begin its implementation by accepting applicants from the revolutionary groups.

Galvez added that the Senate’s move marks another significant milestone in the country's continuing quest to achieve genuine and lasting peace.

He said amnesty is an invaluable instrument for social justice, as it upholds the dignity of former rebels who have laid down their arms and returned to the folds of the law.

Galvez also said the grant of amnesty sends a clear and strong message of hope, compassion and reconciliation to those who wish to abandon armed struggle.

"Our dear senators, your support for the government’s Amnesty Program symbolizes your steadfast commitment to push forward the comprehensive Philippine peace process. You are helping to pave the way for a more inclusive, harmonious and peaceful society where every Filipino can contribute to nation-building and enjoy the dividends of genuine peace and sustainable development," he said.

Ready for implementation

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), meanwhile, said it is ready to implement the Marcos administration’s amnesty programs in coordination with other agencies.

In a statement, NTF-ELCAC executive director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. also thanked lawmakers for their unwavering support to the President’s quest for genuine and lasting peace

"With the vibrant leadership of the President, let’s move forward towards inclusive unity, peace and development. Let ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ make a difference in our lives," Torres said.

On Nov. 22, 2023, the President signed Executive Order (EO) No. 47, amending EO 125 series of 2021.

The EO updates the National Amnesty Commission's (NAC) functions to include processing applications for amnesty under the new proclamations.

On Nov. 29, 2023, House Concurrent Resolutions Nos. 19, 20, 21, and 22 were introduced by House Speaker Martin Romualdez and other House leaders in support of the Chief Executive’s amnesty proclamations for various rebel groups.

"While amnesty provides a chance for redemption, it does not exempt individuals from accountability for grave offenses. We must reinforce our dedication to upholding the rule of law, ensuring accountability for past actions, and adhere to the principles of 'Bagong Pilipinas'," the NTF-ELCAC official stressed.

He added the Proclamation excludes crimes such as kidnap for ransom, massacre, rape, terrorism, crimes against chastity as defined in the Revised Penal Code, crimes committed for personal gain, violation of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, grave violations of the Geneva Convention of 1949, and genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, torture, enforced disappearances, and other gross violations of human rights.

Also, Torres said it is essential that all stakeholders in peacebuilding—including religious leaders, marginalized groups, and civil society organizations—are included in these inclusive initiatives.

"We must also continue dialogues and engagements to address the root causes of the conflict. Our local peace engagement actively involving local government units down to the barangays have been very successful. Sustainable peace can only be achieved by addressing social ills and fostering social justice and equality," Torres said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220773

PH, Czech Republic bolster ties; agree on rules-based order in SCS

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 15, 2024): PH, Czech Republic bolster ties; agree on rules-based order in SCS (By Darryl John Esguerra)

STRONGER TIES. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (left) meets with Czech Republic President Petr Pavel at the Octagon Hall in Prague Castle on Thursday (March 14, 2024). The two leaders explored opportunities for stronger Philippine-Czech Republic trade and bilateral relations. (Presidential Communications Office photo)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday expressed optimism over the possible increased trade and bilateral engagement between the Philippines and the Czech Republic after a fruitful meeting with Czech President Petr Pavel.

In a joint press conference at the Octagon Hall in Prague Castle, Marcos said he had a productive meeting with his Czech counterpart, noting that they explored opportunities for future partnerships in trade and investment, agriculture, green economy and renewable energy, space and aerospace, education, tourism, defense, cybersecurity, and labor, among others.

The President said he also emphasized his government's success in pump-priming the economy and making it an “attractive destination” for Czech investments in the areas of IT-BPM, electronics, manufacturing, food and agriculture, and automotive/ EV manufacturing, among others.

“I am optimistic that we will be able to attract more Czech traders and investors to do business with the Philippines as a result of this increased engagement between our respective business sectors,” Marcos said.

He said he is also looking forward to the second meeting of the Philippines-Czech Republic Joint Committee on Economic Cooperation (JCEC) in Manila later this year.

Czech Republic backs PH in SCS

Meanwhile, the two leaders also agreed that a free and open South China Sea (SCS) is in every nation’s interest, noting the importance of the region in global trade.

“As to South China Sea, we fully support the Philippines when it comes to their entitlement to free movement of goods, and also very intense support because that’s a principle that, not only we all respect but, which also secures global and regional stability,” Pavel was quoted as saying in a statement by the Presidential Communications Office.

“And to us, South China Sea may seem to be far, far away, but if you take into account the percentage of share of world or global trade that passes through this area, any disruption of these routes would have an adverse impact on Europe, not only in the form of shortage of goods but also soaring prices, which is why we have to pay attention to this topic.”

Marcos said the country would continue to deal with the territorial row “through diplomacy and dialogue” despite China’s continued aggression in the disputed waters.

“I underscored that the Philippine position on the South China Sea remains consistent, clear, and firmly anchored on the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea,” he said.

He also thanked Pavel for the Czech Republic’s support as a "like-minded partner, in upholding peace, stability, and the rules-based international order."

More Filipino workers in Czech Republic

During their meeting, Marcos also mentioned the Czech Republic’s decision to increase the quota for Filipino workers entering their country starting in May 2024.

“I took note of the Czech Republic’s announcement that you have increased the quota for Filipino workers from 5,500 to almost double that from January 2024 to 10,300 per year starting in May of 2024,” the President said.

The two leaders also witnessed the signing of the Joint Communiqué on Labor Consultations Mechanism, enforcing a mechanism on the proper procedure for employing Filipino citizens in the European nation.

The Czech Republic is home to more than 7,000 Filipinos working in the processing industry, automotive, repairs and appliances, manufacturing, IT communications, real estate, health/wellness, and household service work.

Marcos is in Prague upon the invitation of Pavel to strengthen the bilateral cooperation and multilateral partnership between the Philippines and the Czech Republic.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220869

Padilla spearheads basic military training for Senate employees

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 14, 2024): Padilla spearheads basic military training for Senate employees (By Wilnard Bacelonia)

Senate building (PNA file photo)

MANILA – Senator Robinhood Padilla on Thursday led the launching of a Basic Citizen Military Training (BCMT) program for Senate officials and employees, which will start this month up to June this year.

Padilla, a reserve Lieutenant Colonel of the Philippine Army, said the BCMT aims to establish formal, actual, and physical training for Senate officials and employees who will sign up for the program.

"Kahit sa Senado maumpisahan natin Citizens Military Training, di lang sa usaping giyera kundi pati sa calamities and mga (Even here in the Senate we can start the Citizens Military Training, not only for war, but also for calamities and) emergencies," he said in an interview.

Padilla said 161 individuals have already signed up for the BCMT and he is looking forward to recruiting at least 300 employees.

The lawmaker sees the trainees as a backup for the Senate's Office of Sergeant-at-Arms (OSAA) during an untoward incident who can contribute to the safety of around 2,000 Senate employees.

"Para sa akin, dapat lahat tayo dito handa kung anong pwede mangyari (For me, all of us here should be prepared for anything that might happen)," Padilla said.

A checklist of requirements for the BCMT course include: accomplished Reservist Information Data Sheet; personal history statement; accomplished diploma for high school or college; PSA birth certificate; barangay, police, RTC and NBI clearances; medical clearance; and drug test result.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220847

DSWD reaffirms commitment to enhance peace, dev't programs

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 14, 2024): DSWD reaffirms commitment to enhance peace, dev't programs (By Zaldy De Layola)

WORKSHOP. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) holds review, evaluation and planning workshop at the Venue 88 Hotel in General Santos City on March 11-14, 2024. In his message, Undersecretary for Inclusive and Sustainable Peace Alan Tanjusay reaffirmed the DSWD’s commitment in advancing the agency’s peace and development initiatives to help government’s efforts in addressing the needs of communities affected by armed conflict. (DSWD photo)

MANILA – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has reaffirmed its commitment in advancing the agency’s peace and development initiatives through program review and evaluation processes to help government’s efforts in addressing the needs of communities affected by armed conflict.

Undersecretary for Inclusive-Sustainable Peace and Special Concerns Alan Tanjusay said the DSWD recently conducted a program review and evaluation workshop which is vital in the attainment of the agency’s goal of bringing government programs and services closer to the people in conflict-stricken areas and lessen the influence of armed groups in these communities.

“By continuously evaluating and refining these initiatives, the department ensures that resources are utilized effectively to address the evolving needs of communities that are affected by and vulnerable to armed conflict,” Tanjusay said in his message.

During the program review and evaluation workshop held at the Venue 88 Hotel in General Santos City from March 11 to 14, the DSWD peace and development workers from across different regions assessed the implementation of various programs in 2023.

Peace and development workers from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao field offices presented their program accomplishments, challenges and gaps encountered while providing resolution to the problems encountered during the workshop.

“The workshop also provided a platform for program focals to have a dialogue meeting with the field offices for the identification of tactical and strategic actions to improve performance,” Tanjusay said.

Part of the General Santos City activity was the planning workshop for 2024 wherein the participants forged strategies to level-up the provision of social protection and services to verified former rebels and combatants, including those in conflict-affected and vulnerable communities in view of the increasing number of target beneficiaries and identified communities in need.

Tanjusay underscored the significant role of the DSWD workforce in implementing the peace and development initiatives of the agency in conflict-affected and -vulnerable areas and the crucial contribution they infused into the regional and national peace agenda of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

"The DSWD peace and development ‘angels in red vests’ are catalysts for peace and development. They are very competent, disciplined, dynamic and driven to empower individuals and vitalize communities towards nation-building. They are excellent community organizers and are highly creative in introducing genuine and lasting change in conflict-affected and conflict-vulnerable areas," he said.

During the planning workshop, the creation and operationalization of the Regional Program Management Offices (RPMOs) for the Peace and Development (PD) Buong Bansa Mapayapa (BBM) Program was also discussed as a priority directive of DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian.

Tanjusay was joined in the planning workshop by Assistant Secretary Arnel Garcia and DSWD Field Office-12 (Soccsksargen) Regional Director Loreto Cabaya Jr.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220832

Army, Samar gov’t step up dialogue with rebels’ kin

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 8, 2024): Army, Samar gov’t step up dialogue with rebels’ kin (By Sarwell Meniano)

PEACE FORUM. Family members of active New People’s Army combatants attend a peace forum organized by the Philippine Army and Samar provincial government during a gathering on March 5, 2024 in Basey, Samar. The military said they are strengthening the Friends Rescued Engagement through their Families program to completely wipe out insurgency in Samar province. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

TACLOBAN CITY – Military and local government officials in Samar will hold more peace forums and dialogue to convince the remaining members of the New People’s Army (NPA) through their families to return to the folds of the law and avail of the benefits offered by the government.

Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade commander Brig. General Noel Vestuir said Friday they are strengthening the Friends Rescued Engagement through their Families (FReE Families) project to completely wipe out insurgency in Samar province.

During the launch on March 5, the army and the local government gathered family members of active NPA members in upland Bacubac village in Basey, Samar, with 29 family members present. Their kin are among the 17 active rebels who are residents of Samar.

Vestuir said they would hold the same dialogue in other areas of Samar province next week.

“The familial influence held by the family and relatives of the remaining active NPA members under the NPA sub-regional committee plays an integral role in our aim to end the armed struggle in Samar through peaceful means,” Vestuir said.

The FReE Families program optimizes the local government’s efforts to link and convince the remaining NPA members through the active participation of the rebels’s families to work for the peaceful surrender of their loved ones and take advantage of the benefits through the Enhanced Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

E-CLIP is a government strategy to convince active rebels to return to the fold of the law by providing financial packages and assistance.

In a statement, Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan said she is optimistic that “the current efforts through the engaged families will work for the surrender of the remaining rebels who are still in the mountains.”

The governor said the identified families and relatives of NPA members are the principal actors for this program, with the end goal of having the NPA members, our target, leave the armed struggle and join them in living a peaceful life.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220350

Hunt on for killers of police intel officer in Gensan City

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2024): Hunt on for killers of police intel officer in Gensan City (By Edwin Fernandez)

GUNNED DOWN. The crash helmet and motorbike of Cpl. Ricky Mendoza Gomez, a police intelligence officer from North Cotabato, after he was ambushed in General Santos City on Sunday night (March 10, 2024). Gomez died on the spot due to multiple gunshot wounds. (Photo courtesy of Gen. Santos CPO)

KORONADAL CITY – Police have launched a massive manhunt for those who ambushed and killed a police intelligence officer in General Santos City on Sunday night.

In a statement Monday, Col. Nicomedes Olaivar Jr., city police director said local authorities have also coordinated with other police units in South Cotabato and Sarangani provinces to help track the killers of Cpl. Ricky Mendoza Gomez.

Gomez, an intel officer assigned to North Cotabato province, was driving his motorbike when ambushed at 6 p.m. by gunmen on board a motorbike using an M16 rifle, based on empty shells recovered at the crime scene.

Olaivar said Gomez is in General Santos City because he is one of the participants of the Intelligence Basic Course at the police’s Regional Training Center in Barangay Apopong.

Investigation into the incident is ongoing.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220505

Army braces for counterattack after 2 BIFFs die in clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2024): Army braces for counterattack after 2 BIFFs die in clash (By Edwin Fernandez)

Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division. (File photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao del Norte – Military forces in Maguindanao del Sur have been placed on heightened alert after two extremists were killed in a clash with government forces in Datu Saudi Ampatuan town over the weekend.

As of Monday, military detachments in the adjoining towns of Shariff Aguak, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Mamasapano, and Shariff Saydona in Maguindanao Sur, areas where the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIFF) operates, remain on alert for possible retaliatory attacks.

Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, said the Army’s 1st Brigade Combat Team conducted the decisive military operations at about 5 a.m. Saturday that left two members of the BIFF dead.

Brig. Gen. Jose Vladimir Caraga, 1BCT commander, said the remains of two slain BIFFs were retrieved in the village of Kitango in Datu Saudi Ampatuan.

“We found an M16 rifle, a .50-caliber homemade Barrett rifle, ammunition, and two improvised explosive devices,” Caraga said in his report to Rillera.

Caraga said about 20 BIFFs were sighted by civilians in the village and alerted military checkpoints nearby, which triggered the clash.

He said soldiers are now pursuing the BIFF group belonging to the Kagui Karialan faction.

On March 3, a BIFF fighter was killed while his father, a sub-leader, was arrested in Mamasapano, Maguindanao del Sur.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220490

9 'demoralized' NPA rebels yield in Caraga

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 11, 2024): 9 'demoralized' NPA rebels yield in Caraga (By Alexander Lopez)

BUTUAN CITY – Nine communist New People's Army rebels separately surrendered in the provinces of Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Sur, the military here said Monday.

Brig. Gen. Arsenio Sadural, Philippine Army's 901st Infantry Brigade (901Bde) commander, said on Sunday, five rebels yielded to the 29th Infantry Battalion (IB) in Agusan del Norte, while the other four to the 36IB in Surigao del Sur.

In Agusan del Norte, the surrenderers were identified as Maria Sila Galupo, Hanah Sarah Galupo, Narlyn Consuegra, Manuel Nakira Jr., and Urily Nakila, who all belonged to the NPA Regional Headquarters of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).

The group handed over two M16 rifles, an AK-47 rifle, and an M79 grenade launcher with ammunition.

In Surigao del Sur, the four other surrenderers belonging to the weakened NPA Guerrilla Front 30 under the NEMRC are Bernabe Pamad, Ronel Estano, Mary Koy Cuarteron, and Lito Montenegro. The group turned in an AK-47 rifle and a .45-caliber pistol.

"The nine (rebels) escaped from their groups because they feared being hit by the continuous combat operations of the 29IB and the 36IB," Sadural said in a statement.

Sadural said the surrender of the nine rebels indicated that the NEMRC is "on the brink of collapse. We are now at the stage wherein insurgency is at its lowest point and nearing extinction. It's the right time to unite and embrace peace."

He said the surrenderers are set to avail of government services under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220492

P120-B road project pushed to pave growth of former 'no man's land'

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2024): P120-B road project pushed to pave growth of former 'no man's land' (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

MUDDY ROAD. A vehicle gets stuck in the mud on the road leading to Tamlang Valley in Negros Oriental in this undated photo. The provincial government of Negros Oriental is pushing for a PHP 120-billion road network that would connect at least three towns to Tamlang Valley, once known as a no-man's land due to the communist insurgency. (PNA file photo by Mary Judaline Flores Partlow)

DUMAGUETE CITY – A PHP 120-billion project that would connect at least three towns in Negros Oriental to a former rebel-infested Tamlang Valley is seen to pave the way for progress and development, an official said Monday.

Alejandro Rafal, head of the Department of Agriculture-Provincial Agriculture Technology Coordinating Office (DA-PATCO) in Negros Oriental, told the Philippine News Agency Monday that the project has sought funding from the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP).

The multi-billion project includes two farm-to-market road networks connecting Barangay Datagon in Pamplona town to Barangay Dobdob in Valencia and from Sta. Catalina town to Dobdob.

The connecting road will pass through Tamlang Valley, once touted as a no-man’s land in the late ‘80s and early '90s at the height of the insurgency in the province, and is now being pushed for a massive agro-industrial development project.

The project scheme entails a 10 percent counterpart from the provincial government of PHP 12 billion, which the provincial government has promised to shell out, Rafal said.

The governor said the local counterpart is already available but what is being done now are preparatory works for submission to the PRDP.

The DA has already allocated PHP10 million for the conduct of the feasibility study.

Additionally, about 55 percent of the program of work and detailed engineering design have already been completed, Rafal said.

He added that the PRDP, a World Bank-supported project, aims to increase rural income and enhance farming and fisheries sectors.

On Monday, the province requested a re-orientation of the PRDP for a new Provincial Project Implementation Unit (PPIU).

Officials from the PRDP and DA in Region 7 were present during the meeting and re-orientation attended by the different offices and sectors comprising the PPIU, Rafal said.

The massive road network project for the development of Tamlang Valley is highly dependent on how fast the provincial government can comply with the PRDP’s requirements, he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220536

Army sustains fight vs insurgency in Pangasinan

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13, 2024): Army sustains fight vs insurgency in Pangasinan (By Hilda Austria)

PEACE AND SECURITY. Philippine Army 71st Infantry Batallion Commander Lt. Col. Benny Singca during a briefing at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Council) session at the provincial capitol in Lingayen, Pangasinan on Monday (March 11, 2024). Singca said the Army continues to fight insurgency in the province. (PNA photo by Hilda Austria)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – Measures against the resurgence of insurgents in Pangasinan continues through programs that will make residents, including the youth, self-sufficient and productive members of society.

In an interview Tuesday, Philippine Army 71st Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Benny Singca said deployment of mobile community support continues.

Four people’s organizations, registered with the Department of Labor and Employment, form part of the overall territorial defense system.

“So that even if there are no military and police forces they will be self-sustaining and prevent resurgence of threat groups, meaning they will not accept the presence of threat groups in their area,” he said.

The Philippine Army also teamed up with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and other stakeholders for the Peace and Community Empowerment, which provides three-month skills training like masonry, carpentry, and scaffolding in far-flung areas.

Since its launch last year, 14 individuals from Mangatarem town and 11 from Infanta town have joined the program.

A youth summit is also conducted.

“Threat groups are focusing their recruitment on the youth due to their nature as adventurous and (this group is the) main source of their cadres,” he said.

Singca said they are likewise enhancing humanitarian assistance and disaster response capabilities in partnership with the Pangasinan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, while outreach programs with other non-government and government entities continue.

“The majority of forces of the threat groups are in the east side in the Sierra Madre. They are trying to consolidate forces to create another guerilla unit in the boundaries of Aurora and Nueva Ecija. We are anticipating that they have a two-year plan to create a unit and try to recover forces and regain forces areas in the Caraballo Mountain range on the side of the province,” he said.

Hence, the government’s efforts to increase forces in the eastern side of the province, deploying platoons in San Nicolas, Natividad, San Quintin, and Umingan towns, to secure hydro projects as well as monitor different groups in Nueva Vizcaya and Nueva Ecija.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220569

Army foils NPA extortion try on Agusan Norte small-scale miners

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13, 2024): Army foils NPA extortion try on Agusan Norte small-scale miners (By Alexander Lopez)

RECOVERED ITEMS. Government troops from the Army's 29th Infantry Battalion respond to the report of harassment and extortion by community rebels, leading to a brief gunfight in a hinterland village in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte, on Tuesday. Soldiers recovered ammunition and war matériel following the armed encounter. (Photo courtesy of 29IB)

BUTUAN CITY – Government forces foiled an extortion attempt by communist rebels on small-scale miners in the Agusan del Norte city of Cabadbaran, the military said Wednesday.

In a statement, the Army's 29th Infantry Battalion(29IB) said a group of small-scale miners in Brgy. Del Pilar, Cabadbaran, reported the presence of NPA on Tuesday and complained that the rebels had extorted and threatened their lives.

Soldiers dispatched to the village encountered a group of NPA rebels, resulting in a brief gunfight that led to the recovery of assorted ammunition and other war matériel.

“The communist NPA terrorists (CNTs) belonged to Squad 2, Sub-Regional Sentro De Grabidad Westland under the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee of the NPA,” Lt. Col. Cresencio Gargar, 29IB commander, said.

Gargar said the group is led by Ricky Per Sr., who was identified by the residents in the area.

“This recent encounter follows a previous engagement with the same group last February 23, 2024, in the hinterlands of Barangay Concepcion in Cabadbaran City, which resulted in the death of one NPA rebel and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle,” he said.

He also lauded the prompt report made by area residents, which he said should be emulated by other villages harassed by the NPA.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220688

DSWD provides P357-K aid to armed conflict-affected families in CamSur

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13, 2024): DSWD provides P357-K aid to armed conflict-affected families in CamSur (By Connie Calipay)

GOV'T AID. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) personnel and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) troops provide family food packs to residents of Barangays Santa Rita and Bagong Silang in Del Gallego, Camarines Sur on Tuesday (March 12, 2024). A total of PHP357,000 worth of assistance was given to those displaced by the recent clash between government troops and New People's Army rebels. (Photo courtesy of DSWD Bicol)

LEGAZPI CITY – The Department of Social Welfare and Development 5 (DSWD-Bicol) distributed PHP357,000 worth of assistance to families affected by the recent clash between government troops and the New People's Army (NPA) in Camarines Sur.

In an interview on Wednesday, Carl James Cabarles, DSWD disaster risk reduction management division information officer, said a total of 145 families or 725 individuals from Barangays Santa Rita and Bagong Silang in Del Gallego town were provided with family food packs (FFPs) and hygiene kits.

"This is the second tranche of assistance given by DSWD-Bicol. The first was given last March 4, hours after the incident. We provided family food packs and hygiene kits worth PHP68,000 and the second was yesterday (March 12) as additional relief assistance, including FFPs and essential non-food relief items such as sleeping kits and family kits worth of PHP291,209," he said.

Based on DSWD-Disaster Response Management Division (DRMD) data, at least 19 families remain displaced and still seeking refuge among their relatives in the neighboring barangays.

In a statement, DSWD-Bicol Regional Director Norman Laurio reassured the displaced and affected families that the agency, as directed by Secretary Rex Gatchalian, will continue to provide for their needs and support.

In a separate interview, Maj. Frank Roldan, 9th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) chief, said the 9ID prioritized the safety of residents before, during or after the conduct of operation.

"Ensuring the safety of civilians and residents is our top priority during operations, and all human rights are respected," Roldan said.

The clash between government troops and communist terrorist groups belonging to the Bicol Regional Party Committee (BRPC) took place on March 4.

"They are the group who are responsible for the killing of five Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) members in Barangay Mapulot, Tagkawayan, Quezon last Sept. 1, 2023," Roldan said.

After the encounter, soldiers recovered two M16 rifles, one M14 rifle, ammunition, magazines, terrorist items and personal equipment from the clash site.

Roldan said they conducted Civil Military Operations engagement in the affected barangays in coordination with the local government unit of Del Gallego.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220719

Police allay fears over killings in Leyte

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13, 2024): Police allay fears over killings in Leyte (By Roel Amazona)

PEACE COUNCIL. Leyte Governor Carlos Jericho Petilla (in white barong) speaks during the provincial peace and order council on March 7, 2024. Petilla said that town mayors in the 3rd District of Leyte have expressed fear over the recent killing incidents involving village officials in their area. (PNA photo by Roel Amazona)

TACLOBAN CITY – Town mayors in the 3rd District of Leyte are optimistic that the additional police officers in their respective municipalities would allay fears over the recent killing incidents involving village officials in their area.

Leyte Governor Carlos Jericho Petilla said security concerns were raised by local officials from five towns during the recent provincial peace and order council after the series of shooting incidents last month that killed five village officials.

“All concern in the 3rd District is about their safety and the safety of their families,” Petilla told reporters on Wednesday.

The 3rd District covers the towns of San Isidro, Tabango, Villaba, Leyte, and Calubian.

“The solution for this, like I said before, is more police force. Right now, a big chunk of our Philippine National Police forces are in the 3rd District, including our army,” he said.

“Am I confident? I am confident that we don’t have shooting incidents now, but I am not confident that there will be any killings when they leave. We are asking them not to leave the district unless the cases of killing are solved.”

On March 9, Leyte’s provincial police deployed an additional 389 police officers to beef up law enforcement operations.

Their presence would be reinforced by village watchmen to keep peace, order, and security in every village throughout the district.

Police Regional Office 8 (Eastern Visayas) Director, Brig. Gen. Reynaldo Pawid, witnessed the send-off ceremony held at the San Isidro Civic Center in San Isidro town.

“Their presence will not only enhance law enforcement capabilities but also strengthen the bond between the police and the residents they serve,” Pawid said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220724

Aurora declared under stable internal peace, security

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 13, 2024): Aurora declared under stable internal peace, security (By Jason De Asis)

PEACE AND SECURITY DECLARATION. Aurora Acting Governor Reynante Tolentino (in white shirt) is shown together with other government officials after the signing of a resolution declaring the province of Aurora under a state of stable internal peace and security in Baler town on Wednesday (March 13, 2024). This was after the Department of the Interior and Local Government declared that 15 villages in two municipalities were cleared of insurgency influence. (Photo by Jason de Asis)

BALER, Aurora – The Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) has declared Aurora province to be in a state of stable internal peace and security, which is seen to promote sustainable development, attract more investments, and boost tourism.

This was after five barangays in San Luis town and 10 in Maria Aurora were declared cleared of communist insurgency influence through the sustained Community Support Program (CSP) and Retooled Community Support Program by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

The declaration came through a resolution of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) and was signed by Acting Governor Reynante Tolentino and members of the PPOC at the capitol compound in Barangay Suklayin here on Wednesday.

It was affirmed by Assistant Commander Brig. Gen. Dennis Pacis of the Army's 7th Infantry Division (7ID) who represented Maj. Gen. Andrew Costelo, DILG Regional Director Anthony C. Nuyda, and Provincial Board Member Dan Boyet Ong.

Tolentino said the provincial government of Aurora has always wanted and worked to have a stable peace and order situation in the whole province and thanked the 91st Infantry Battalion (91IB) under the 7ID, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and other concerned agencies for attaining it.

Pacis, reading the message of Costelo, said the declaration is the result of relentless efforts of the 91IB, PNP, devoted government agencies, non-government organizations, private sectors, and the local communities in Aurora.

“As one united, we have played our role as stewards of peace putting an end to the local communist armed conflict and paving the way for development in our beloved province,” he said.

“As we celebrate this achievement, let us commit ourselves to the principles of peace, unity, tranquility, and progress,” Lt. Col. Julito B. Recto, commander of 91IB, said.

In his message, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency-Central Luzon (NICA-3) Director Niňo Anthony E. Balagtas said the declaration is a testament to the collective efforts of the government, law enforcement agencies, and most importantly, the resilience and cooperation of the people.

“This declaration is not just a formality but a recognition of the hard work and sacrifices made by countless individuals to ensure the safety and well-being of the province. It is a tribute to our brave men and women in uniform and other government partner agencies who have dedicated their lives protecting community and upholding the rule of law,” he said.

He cited that the focused military operations under the Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support have effectively dismantled the Komiteng Larangang Guerrilla Sierra Madre (KLG-SM) communist terrrorist group (CTG) in 2021.

Moreover, since 2018, the collective efforts of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) of Aurora through various clusters have yielded remarkable results in their pursuit of peace and security.

"Through intelligence gathering, we have facilitated surrenders and disaffiliations of leaders and members of the CTG, paving the way for local peace engagements and community consultations," Balagtas said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220741

Top NPA cadre, 3 others surrender in Surigao Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 14, 2024): Top NPA cadre, 3 others surrender in Surigao Norte (By Alexander Lopez)

SURRENDER OF A LEADER. Juanita Leyson, the secretary of the Sub-Regional Committee Northland under the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee of the New People’s Army (NPA) turns herself in along with three other rebel fighters on March 11, 2024 at the Headquarters of the Army's 30th Infantry Battalion in Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte. Leyson is the highest ranking NPA leader in the Caraga Region to surrender to authorities this year, Army officials said. (Photo courtesy of 901Bde)

BUTUAN CITY – A top official of the Sub-Regional Committee Northland under the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the headquarters of the Army's 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) in Surigao del Norte, the Army said Thursday.

In a statement, the Army's 901st Brigade (901Bde) said NPA regional secretary Juanita Leyson turned herself in at the unit's headquarters in Barangay Mahanub, Gigaquit town, on Monday.

Leyson brought with her three other comrades– Rajem Pertos, Jezalyn Platil, and Pegi Diaz.

“Her decision to surrender will cut off the group’s extortion activities in Surigao del Norte and neighboring provinces and weaken the financial backbone of the communist terrorist group in the region to fund its criminal operations,” Brig. Gen. Arsenio Sadural, 901Bde commander, was quoted as saying.

During the surrender, Leyson and her group handed over a bushmaster rifle, an AR-15 rifle, more than 1,000 rounds of assorted ammunition, bulletproof vests and other war materiel.

Saural said Leyson's surrender was a "crucial step" to achieving lasting peace and prosperity in Caraga.

Earlier this week, the Army’s 4th Infantry Division said the NPA rebels in Caraga suffered a huge setback with the surrender of 14 combatants and in the early part of March.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1220781